Don Letts, one of reggae’s most influential characters, will soon be premiering his brand new podcast Reggae 45. Letts, having been central to the reggae scene in the 70s and 80s, is cited as being the DJ that turned a generation of punks to reggae. Since, Letts has become one of the most respected names in music history, having worked alongside the likes of Bob Marley.
Reggae 45 will explore the history of reggae and is set to be something special considering Letts’ experience hosting his weekly ‘Culture Clash Radio’ show on BBC 6 Music. Each show will focus on a different aspect of the genre and will be curated entirely by Don himself. Don’s Reggae 45 Podcasts will launch in Turtle Bay restaurants on the 17th July
Reggae has had an undeniable influence on drum and bass and so we caught up with Don to get his thoughts on the genre and his upcoming endeavor.
What has been your experience of Reggae as a genre throughout your career?
From its creation in the late sixties to this time in the 21st century reggae has been an integral part of my life. Inspiring everything I do, whether that be making films, music or DJing. My first feature film ‘Dancehall Queen’ is set in Jamaica, and is probably my biggest personal hit to date and something I’m very proud of. This along with my music videos for the likes of Bob Marley (One Love) and Musical Youth (Pass The Dutchie). so, you could say reggae has been good to me.
In your opinion how significant of an impact has Reggae had on the modern UK music scene?
Reggae is now part of the fabric of popular music, the emphasis on bass, the importance of beats, the remix and rap all owe a debt to reggae. Not to mention the idea of using the mixing desk itself as an instrument.
How will your new podcast Reggae 45 differ from Culture Clash Radio?
Dude, you can’t compare my Reggae 45 podcasts to my Culture Clash Radio Show, their respective titles say it all!
In your opinion, to what extent has Reggae shaped the UK drum and bass scene?
The line between Jamaican music and drum & bass is self-evident. In that genre and many others, it’s a story that starts in Jamaica with the creation of dub and the sonic experiments by pioneers like Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry and King Tubby.
